Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Shift Information
Mon-Fri, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Position Overview
The Nuclear Medicine Technologist provides healthcare services through the application of radionuclides, assisting in diagnosis and treatment. This role involves performing nuclear medicine procedures and related techniques to produce images for interpretation by licensed practitioners. The technologist exercises professional judgment in the performance of services and maintains a demeanor that aligns with medical ethics. Responsibilities include ensuring appropriate patient care and recognizing any conditions essential for the successful completion of procedures.
Essential Job Functions
- Perform diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures, verifying patient clinical history and documenting necessary information.
- Prepare and instruct patients for procedures to attain desired results while minimizing anxiety.
- Select and operate radiation detection, imaging, and associated equipment effectively.
- Position patients and equipment optimally to demonstrate the anatomic area of interest, considering patient comfort and ability.
- Immobilize patients as needed for examinations.
- Prepare, calculate, identify, and administer radiopharmaceuticals and medications as prescribed.
- Evaluate images for technical quality and ensure proper identification is recorded.
- Verify informed consent and assist licensed practitioners with interventional procedures.
- Practice aseptic techniques and manage the physical and emotional needs of patients during procedures.
- Initiate basic life support actions when necessary and maintain awareness of Universal precautions.
- Perform venipuncture as required.
- Assist in maintaining records, ensuring confidentiality in accordance with established policies.
- Take responsibility for the assigned area and report any equipment malfunctions.
- Provide input regarding equipment purchases and supply decisions.
- Offer practical instruction to students and other healthcare professionals.
- Participate in the department's quality assessment and improvement initiatives, potentially overseeing specific quality control duties.
- Control inventory and manage the purchase of supplies for the assigned area.
- Demonstrate strong patient relations skills.
- Pursue continuing education to maintain licenses or certifications.
- Complete other duties as assigned to support departmental functions.
Qualifications
- Education:
- Required: Associate or Bachelor's degree from an accredited nuclear medicine program.
- Preferred: N/A
- Licenses/Certifications:
- Required: OBMI and ARRT registered nuclear medicine technologist, current BLS certification.
- Preferred: CRASE training, required if the assignment extends beyond a 6-month period.
- Experience:
- Required: Minimum of 3 years’ experience in nuclear medicine.
- Preferred: Minimum of 2 years’ experience.
Physical Requirements
The position requires adequate auditory ability to detect patient alarms and verbal communication. Clear and effective communication skills are essential for interaction with patients, families, and healthcare team members. Visual acuity is necessary for monitoring patient conditions and situations, and tactile perception is important for assessing various physical characteristics. The role involves motor coordination for tasks involving medical equipment, with requirements for occasional bending, lifting, and the ability to manage patients and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds independently.
Working Conditions
This position is typically performed in an indoor healthcare environment. While protected from outdoor conditions, staff may encounter variable indoor temperatures. The role includes frequent exposure to infectious and contagious diseases and requires adherence to safety protocols and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). The work environment can be fast-paced and may involve responding to high-pressure situations.
Holiday Coverage
Holiday coverage is required.